2014 ram 1500 Reviews and News

As the 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel rolls onto dealer lots, you can expect to hear a lot about the numbers, and for good reason: it’s the first in a new wave of diesel-powered light-duty pickup trucks to be sold in North America, and it promises to provide the towing capacity of a V-8—up to 9200 pounds, depending on specification—and the fuel economy of a V-6 (up to 28 mpg on the freeway).

In recent years, though, we’ve learned to like a lot more about pickup trucks than numbers. That’s particularly true of the Ram 1500, which has distinguished itself with an ever growing list of refinements, including rear coil (or optional air) springs, premium interior materials, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. In fact, the Ram is the recipient of three Automobile Magazine All-Star awards. So, our main concern about the 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel that came through our office recently was not its towing capacity or its payload or its fuel economy but, rather, whether its All-Star character remains intact.

The 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel announces its key feature the moment it chokes to life. The telltale diesel clatter clearly proclaims, “No, it’s not a Hemi.” Whereas diesel engine clatter still sounds slightly strange coming from a car (at least to American ears), it instantly registers as familiar in a truck. Oil-burners have long been a mainstay in the heavy-duty segment. In 2013, some 80 percent of Ram 2500/3500 buyers chose the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel from the maker of the diesel V-8 to be offered in the next-generation Nissan Titan.
Truck buyers like diesels because truck buyers like torque. The 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel has plenty to offer. Its Italian-engineered, 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 boasts 420 lb-ft—10 lb-ft more than the Hemi V-8, and it peaks at only 2000 rpm. One might expect the tradeoff for this low-end performance to be very little top-end power. Indeed, the diesel hits redline at only 4500 rpm, but the Ram’s automatic uses its eight speeds to great advantage, constantly and rapidly shifting to keep the diesel in its comfort zone. “Performance is just as smooth and flawless as we have come to expect from a Ram 1500,” notes associate web editor Jake Holmes. “There’s gobs of power all the time.”

To be clear, the 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel is not a muscle truck—for that, you’ll need to stick with the 5.7-liter V-8. The key to the Ram 1500’s charm isn’t that it’s fast, but that it’s so darn nice. Our test truck, a well-equipped Laramie Crew Cab, proved equally worthy of all the praise we’ve heaped upon the gas-powered models. The optional air springs provide a relatively smooth ride even with an empty bed. The leather-upholstered cabin puts some luxury cars to shame and, as staff editor Jennifer Misaros notes, is “crammed with features that pickup truck buyers wouldn’t have imagined just a few years ago.” Features like remote start, perfect for counteracting the long warm-up times of diesel engines and well worth the extra $200, especially in Michigan’s recent subzero temperatures. “It also turns on the seat and steering wheel heaters,” Holmes adds. The interior is also extremely quiet—most of the clatter is audible only with the windows open. It’s very easy to climb into the Ram 1500 Ecodiesel, shut the door, and forget that you’re driving an enormous truck. (Until you drive into a cramped parking garage or try to stare around its A-pillars, which are as thick as tree trunks.) “If ever there were a pickup that could be described as lovely, the Ram is it,” Misaros says.

One number you’re not likely to hear in advertising for the 2014 Ram 1500 Ecodiesel is $2850—the surcharge for the diesel compared with the Hemi V-8, which reflects the costs of making diesels compliant with modern emission standards. We’ll let you open up a spreadsheet to decide whether the diesel’s fuel economy advantage warrants the extra money up front. What we can tell you is that it’s a truck you’ll want. “The torquey, efficient diesel engine only makes the Ram 1500, already our favorite pickup truck, even more desirable,” copy editor Rusty Blackwell concludes.

Westlake Village, California -- Adding to its amazement factor for 2014, the Ram 1500 now offers buyers the choice of a brawler or a bruiser. The brawler, of course, is the available Hemi V-8. Raise it off idle, and you know it has attitude. To delve hard through its midrange toward the top is to experience true bellicosity.

Now there's the bruiser: the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. This engine is nothing but punches to the midsection. You know this merely by listening to it. While an unstinting effort was made to suppress the rumble that's the bellwether of diesels, we didn't mistake the grumbling exhaust note for the tones of a carillon. The clattery percussiveness is censored remarkably well, but it isn't silenced.

In a shrewd move, Ram is introducing this 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 to the light-duty pickup class. Ram led off with Cummins turbodiesel sixes in its heavy-duty trucks in 1989, and others followed in that category. Being first to market with a light-duty diesel will have advantages as other manufacturers jump in. Nissan will insert a Cummins V-8 into the Titan, and diesel power is slated for GM's midsize trucks as well.

The Ram's DOHC engine, which is approved for sale in all fifty states, is available in six of nine models. When the final fuel-economy figures come in, the V-6 could redefine efficient pickup performance. It wrings out 240 hp at 3600 rpm but, more significantly, 420 lb-ft of torque at 2000 rpm. (When the Cummins turbodiesel six was adopted, it produced 400 lb-ft.)

The Hemi V-8 far surpasses the turbodiesel V-6 in power, at 395 hp, which would be useful if you were trying for the household haulers' class record at the Bonneville Salt Flats. But for towing up to 10,000 pounds, plowing heavy snow, or carrying up to a 1630-pound payload, the torque is nice to have. With nearly twice the displacement, the gasoline-fueled V-8 languidly churns out 410 lb-ft of torque at 3950 rpm. Meanwhile, the diesel should easily surpass the 25 mpg highway achieved by the gasoline 3.6-liter V-6 -- the Ram's other available engine -- while also offering less consumption under load and extending the truck's range to previously unachieved distances.

From Italy, with Love
The 60-degree, 24-valve DOHC V-6 is designed and made by VM Motori in Cento, Italy. Since 1992, VM Motori has supplied diesels for Chrysler's European products, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler 300. This engine is nearly identical to the one now offered domestically in the Grand Cherokee; the only differences are that the Ram's all-aluminum oil pan and oil cooler have been modified for packaging considerations, according to powertrain engineering chief Jamie Standring.

Fuel is delivered under 29,000 psi of pressure to the six cylinders by a common-rail injection system. Relying on boosted induction from a variable-geometry turbocharger, the V-6 operates with a 16.5:1 compression ratio, significantly higher than the typical gas engine, and it's designed accordingly, with a block and bedplate of compacted graphite iron. This is just one of several strategies to quell NVH. Uniform dispersal of the graphite produces several desirable properties, Standring said, speaking in the soft brogue of his native English Midlands.

"The graphite in the cast iron gives the material a higher strength," he said. "So you can basically use that strength to create a stiffer structure. In terms of diesels and noise, the key is ensuring that the higher combustion loads are managed in that structure. You need a stiffer bottom end of the engine to make sure you don't end up with a noisy powertrain."

We had Standring explain why a diesel produces so much torque. He attributed it to "the higher calorific value in the fuel, higher compression ratios, and the turbocharging." The high compression ratio is due to the fact that diesel fuel has less combustibility. "It's less likely to ignite as you compress it. And you're relying on compression to ignite it. The higher compression ratios drive the fuel-air mix up to a higher temperature so it does ignite."

Applying the "Eco" to the "Diesel" meant emulating the European luxury sedans, as well as heavy-duty Class 8 trucks, and injecting a solution containing urea into the exhaust stream. "It's an iteration where we've changed the emissions after-treatment from diesel particulate filter and oxidation cat[alyst] only to SCR: Selective Catalytic Reduction, the urea system."

An eight-gallon tank holds a mixture of deionized water with urea in a 32.5 percent solution. (The EcoDiesel will keep running at full power when the solution runs low.) This liquid is pumped into the stream just behind the diesel particulate filter, and oxides of nitrogen are reduced.

The storage tank, whose nozzle is beside the fuel filler, is scheduled for replenishing at the same 10,000-mile interval that oil changes are due. Word on the Web is to take care of this yourself and purchase the solution at a truck stop instead of letting a dealership charge a small fortune for this mythical, magical fluid.

But is the question settled?
The lack of any highway driving hampered our evaluation of the 1500 EcoDiesel. Twisting around on Mulholland Highway in the Santa Monica Mountains and dropping down to the Pacific Coast Highway hardly revealed all the engine's dynamic characteristics. It was laudably quiet and smooth-running but a bit hesitant to respond when we kicked down a gear in the eight-speed automatic. Otherwise, there's not much news. It's all very civilized and refined, and it's so quiet that we thought we could hear surfboards slapping the water at beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Diesels in general strike us as being rather blunt and impersonal, and the EcoDiesel is no different. On the other hand, the Hemi V-8 is like an affectionate uncle who tells great stories. But you want to get the job done, right? We observed around 17 mpg while crawling up and down the mountainsides.

Like most of the diesels we’ve seen in light vehicles, you pay a price premium. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel costs $2850 more than the Hemi V-8. So the question arises, where is the break-even point? We’re waiting for the final fuel-economy figures before the EcoDiesel-equipped models go on sale in December. But after our test, we’re still inclined to go with the Hemi V-8. It’s that good.

New for 2014

The 2014 Ram 1500 adds a third engine option in the form of a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V-6 producing 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a maximum towing capacity of 9,200 pounds. A new front park assist feature has also been added.

Vehicle Overview

The 2014 Ram 1500 is a full-size truck sold in three cab and bed options, and in rear- and four-wheel drive configurations. It is available in Tradesman, Express, HFE, SLT, Lone Star, and Big Horn grades. Short beds are available exclusively with a crew cab configuration.

Summary

In addition to the diesel V-6, the 2014 Ram 1500 is also available with a 3.6-liter V-6 making 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque or a 5.7-liter V-8 producing 395 hp and 410 lb-ft paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is impressive with diesel trucks with the EPA rating rear-drive variants at 20/28 mpg city/highway and 19/27 mpg with four-wheel drive. Gas engine variants also achieve respectable fuel economy, ranging from 14-18/20-25 mpg depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration. The optional air suspension has helped improve the Ram 1500’s driving dynamics, allowing the driver to adjust the truck’s ground clearance for on- or off-road duties while keeping the ride smooth and the body stable. However, when driving in small two-lane roads, the Ram 1500 feels “bulky and a bit clumsy” compared to its competitors particularly the Ford F-150.

Inside, the Ram 1500 has a well-built cabin that feels upscale particularly in higher trim levels. Available convenience and premium features such as the large 8.4-inch touch screen UConnect interface with navigation, in-car Wi-Fi hotspot option, and leather upholstery “puts some luxury cars to shame.” The Ram 1500’s interior is refined and “extremely quiet—with most of the clatter is only audible only with the windows open.” Additionally, all the premium and convenience options don’t compromise the truck’s practicality and utilitarian functions with an abundance of storage spaces in the bed and inside the cabin. There are, however, some little quirks in the Ram 1500’s interior such as the manual shift controls for the eight-speed automatic mounted in front of the steering wheel, which puts them at a weird position and makes them

The 2014 Ram 1500 has a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA (out of a possible five stars).

What We Think:

The 2014 Ram 1500 is an excellent truck that combines power, fuel efficiency, capability, and practicality in an upscale, tech-laden package. In a 2014 Driven review, we noted that the truck’s performance “is just as smooth and flawless as we have come to expect” with “gobs of power all the time.” However, the diesel engine’s $2,850 premium over the 5.7-liter V-8, which is mainly due to making it comply with modern emission stands, means buyers must decide whether the fuel economy advantage is worth it.

You’ll Like

Diesel fuel economy and towing capacity

Plush interior

Generous storage spaces

You Won’t Like

Huge premium for diesel trucks

Odd placement for manual shift function

Clumsy handling

Key Competitors

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Ford F-150

Toyota Tundra

Nissan Titan

Rating

All 2015 Ram pickup trucks will now boast tow ratings certified under the new, more demanding SAE J2807 standard, and impressively, not a single model sees its ratings decline under the new certification process. All versions of the 2015 Ram 1500, 2500 HD, and 3500 HD will henceforth have towing figures that meet the stricter tow ratings.

Automotive enthusiasts are simple creatures. We want power, and lots of it, and we’re here to help you find it in its most affordable form(s). Power doesn’t always mean outright speed though, and big horsepower numbers can show up in unexpected places. For less than $30,000, the best dollars-per-horsepower ratio goes to a bizarre mix of cars, crossovers, and trucks, both fast and slow. What’s clear is that if you want the most ponies for the fewest Benjamins, buy American. (Note: All prices include destination fees.)

Ram might be on to something with the new 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, as initial demand for this oil-burner has far surpassed the company’s expectations for this powertrain. Ram says it received more than 8000 orders for the EcoDiesel within three days of opening up orders, filling the initial allocation for this configuration.

Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler are finally jumping on board for the Society of Automotive Engineers’ (SAE) universal standard for light-duty pickup tow ratings, called J2807. These changes will take effect for the 2015 model year, as each of the big three will begin publishing tow ratings according to this revised standard.

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Warranty

Recalls

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:31

Component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT PANEL

Summary

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2014 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured July 1, 2013, through August 22, 2013. Randomly, the warning lights in the instrument cluster may fail to illuminate as designed.

Consequences

Inoperative warning lights may not properly warn the driver of vehicle problems, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N59.

Potential Units Affected

8,370

Notes

Chrysler Group LLC

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Summary

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ram 1500 4x4 vehicles manufactured January 24, 2014, through February 5, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission case may have been improperly machined which can result in the park pawl not properly engaging when the transmission is in the 'Park' position.

Consequences

If the park pawl does not properly engage, the vehicle may rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2014. Owners may contract Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P13.

Potential Units Affected

125

Notes

Chrysler Group LLC

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:40

Component

SUSPENSION:REAR:SHOCK ABSORBER

Summary

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2014 Jeep Cherokee and Ram 1500 and 2015 Chrysler 200 vehicles. Due to an insufficient weld, the rear shocks may detach from the vehicle at one end and possibly damage other chassis components, the tire or result in reduced braking.

Consequences

Damage to the tire or reduced braking increases the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear shocks and replace any affected ones, free of charge. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P37.

Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify and mail affected owners a USB drive that includes a software update that eliminates the vulnerability, free of charge. Optionally, owners may download the update to their own USB drive from http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ or take their vehicle to a Chrysler dealer for immediate installation. In an effort to mitigate the effects of this security vulnerability, Chrysler has had the wireless service provider close the open cellular connection to the vehicle that provided unauthorized access to the vehicle network. This measure may not have been implemented on all vehicles and does not address access by other means that will be remedied by the software update. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R40.

Potential Units Affected

1,400,000

Notes

Chrysler (FCA US LLC)

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:50

Component

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Summary

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.

Consequences

Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.

Potential Units Affected

667,406

Notes

Chrysler (FCA US LLC)

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:50

Component

SEAT BELTS

Summary

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.

Consequences

Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.

Potential Units Affected

667,406

Notes

Chrysler (FCA US LLC)

Recall Date

12-31-1969:21:35:50

Component

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Summary

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured January 18, 2011, to October 7, 2014, and equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option. The affected vehicles have a steering wheel wiring harness that may rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring.

Consequences

This abrasion may result in an electrical short that could cause driver's frontal air bag to unexpectedly deploy. Inadvertent deployment of the air bag may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, repair as necessary, and secure the steering wheel wiring harness. Additionally, protective caps will be added to the air bag retainer spring ends. These repairs will be done free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 19, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R36.